WhatsApp starts rolling out username feature: Here’s how it will work

WhatsApp is set to transform how users interact on the platform with the long-anticipated introduction of usernames, a feature that has been in development for months. Originally slated for a rollout in June 2026, reports indicate that the feature is currently being tested among a select group of users on both Android and iOS devices. As the rollout progresses, more users can expect to gain access to this privacy-focused addition later this year. The implementation of usernames aims to enhance user privacy by allowing individuals to connect without needing to share their phone numbers. According to WABetaInfo, the feature is gradually being introduced, starting with a limited audience. Users will be able to generate unique usernames directly within the app's profile settings, where a specific option for creating usernames will be made available once the feature is fully rolled out. WhatsApp has established certain guidelines for choosing usernames. Each username must begin with "www." and cannot conclude with a domain suffix such as .com or .net. Additionally, usernames must contain at least one letter, disallowing combinations of only numbers or symbols. Acceptable characters include lowercase letters (a-z), digits (0-9), periods, and underscores, with usernames needing to be between 3 to 35 characters long. Moreover, a username must be unique across all Meta platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp. Users cannot select a username that is already in use on Instagram or Facebook unless they can verify ownership by linking their accounts through the Accounts Centre. Once this verification is completed, they may use the same username on WhatsApp. However, if another user already holds that username on Facebook or Instagram, it will not be available for use on WhatsApp, even if it appears to be free. This new feature not only aims to enhance user privacy but also streamlines the way individuals can connect and communicate on the platform, as WhatsApp continues to innovate to meet the needs of its users.